My Dad's Bestfriend novel Chapter 118

Evelyn

I stood before the door, my hand hovering, hesitant to knock. I knew Jacob was in a tough spot, regardless of whether he wanted me near him or not. The truth remained—he didn't deserve to face it alone.

He needed me.

Take a deep breath, Evelyn. You can do this.

With resolve, I raised my hand and rapped gently on the door, "Jacob?"

Seconds ticked by in silence, no response forthcoming. My concern reached its peak.

Another breath, another knock. "Jacob, do you want to talk?"

Still, the only reply was the echoing silence of the room.

"Can we please talk?" My voice trembled. I didn't even know the extent of what he was going through, but I couldn't fucking bear the thought of him suffering alone. I wanted to be there to offer comfort—I did not want to be absent when his tears would fall, I wanted to be the one to wipe them away and make sure they’d not fall again just like he had always done.

"Just open the door, Jacob," I pleaded softly, my forehead resting against the cool surface. "You don't have to face this alone. I'm here for you. Let me in."

Once again, silence enveloped the space, his response absent. I pressed my palms against the door, feeling lost for words, unsure of what else I could say to coax him out.

Questions swirled in my mind as I spoke once more, my voice laced with concern. "I want to be there for you, Jacob. I understand it's not easy, but you don't have to bear it alone. Let me be by your side, please."

As the silence persisted, I began to question whether my intrusion was warranted.

Was it right to interrupt him when he was perhaps trying to seek a moment of peace alone?

Perhaps Jacob needed some time alone, a moment to gather his thoughts and emotions. I didn't want to encroach upon his breathing space, to force him into a conversation he wasn't ready for. Even though I wanted to be there for him I respected his need for personal space. I was not willing to take that away from him because of my concern.

No, I can’t do this.

If he wants to be alone, I should let him be.

"Okay, fine," I exhaled softly, "You don't have to open the door now. I'll leave. Take your time. But please, remember, I'm always here for you. You're never alone. You will never be alone—I'll always be there for you. Always."